The Marquette University Debate Institute (MUDI) brings together students, teachers, coaches, and judges from around the country together to conduct in-depth analysis and research in the activity of policy debate. Over the course of two weeks, students engage in political, economic, and philosophical areas of research and discussion.
From theory lectures to skill activities to full practice debates, students grow in their ability to critically analyze issues and more persuasively advocate for given outcomes. Roughly eighty-five students attended MUDI 2007 during late July and early August, and students have come from as far away as Maine, Texas, South Dakota, Idaho, Florida, New Mexico, and New Hampshire. Approximately eight to ten states are represented at MUDI each year, and this year’s additions included California and Georgia.
Most institute attendees, however, come from Wisconsin, and virtually all of them go on to achieve at the highest levels both in state and nationally. The 2007-2008 high school debate topic pertains to international affairs, specifically how the United States federal government should substantially increase its public health assistance to Sub-Saharan Africa. Challenging material indeed – but the students immerse themselves in research, skill development, and the practice debates that culminate in a strong and enlightening MUDI experience. With the completion of this summer’s program MUDI marks its 28th year of serving the debate community; it has been a vital educational experience for thousands of students involved in academic policy debate.
New to MUDI this summer were students and teachers on scholarship from the Milwaukee Debate League. The MDL – a partnership of the National Debate Project, metropolitan Milwaukee schools and Marquette University – seeks to reinvigorate the fine tradition of debate in the Milwaukee area by providing start-up support for up to 30 new programs. The Milwaukee Debate League brings the benefits of debate to a widely diverse set of high schools, whose populations vary in size, location, socioeconomic levels, racial/ethnic makeup, and school mission. Supported by a generous three-year gift of the Einhorn Family Charitable Trust, the MDL is the 20th Urban Debate League in the nation and the league is facilitated in conjunction with and supported by the Diederich College of Communication.
Marquette University Director of Debate, Tom Noonan serves as the Institute Director and MU communication alumnus Dr. Tim Dale serves as Associate Director. David Denomie, the Administrator for the Milwaukee Debate League serves as the New Teacher Program Director.
